Episodi

  • Ep 10 | The Hope Dealer: Restorative Leadership, Digital Voice, and Running Toward the Roar with Dr. J.R. Rucker

    Ep 10 | The Hope Dealer: Restorative Leadership, Digital Voice, and Running Toward the Roar with Dr. J.R. Rucker
    Jan 19 2026
    In this powerful episode of On the School Bus with Dr. Spates, Dr. J.R. Rucker hops on the bus to share a deeply personal and purpose-driven leadership journey—one shaped by adversity, restored by education, and fueled by hope.From navigating a challenging childhood to serving as a high school principal, Dr. Rucker describes himself as a “hope dealer”—a leader committed to giving students what he did not always receive: belief, advocacy, and opportunity. He reflects on his roots as a special education teacher, emphasizing that every child is different and that effective educators must be willing to find at least one door of engagement for every student.Throughout the conversation, Dr. Rucker unpacks what restorative leadership looks like in real schools—centering relationships, accountability, and healing over punishment. He challenges school leaders to run toward the roar, confront hard truths, and create safe spaces where students, staff, and families can engage in honest conversations.The episode also explores the evolving role of digital media and social platforms in school leadership. Dr. Rucker makes a compelling case for why schools can no longer afford to be silent online—and how social media, when used with intention, becomes a tool for transparency, connection, and community pride.Grounded in wisdom, humility, and hope, this episode is a reminder that education is not transactional—it is transformational for students, families, and entire communities.✨ What You’ll Learn (Episode Takeaways)Why being a hope dealer is a leadership responsibility—not a sloganHow restorative practices change culture, not just behaviorWhy every student deserves at least one door of engagementHow weekly career exploration can reshape student motivation and agencyWhat it means to run toward the roar as a school leaderWhy schools must embrace digital media to tell their own storiesHow educators can sustain themselves through self-care and balance⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Dr. J.R. Rucker01:20 – Becoming a Hope Dealer04:26 – Experiences That Shaped His Educational Philosophy06:47 – The Power of Restorative Practices10:26 – Leading a High School Community with Intention12:12 – Run Toward the Roar: A Leadership Mantra14:11 – Motivating Students and Staff16:17 – Leveraging Social Media for School Engagement25:35 – The Educational Truth Podcast and Conference29:36 – Advice for New Educators35:01 – Writing Books to Empower Others40:02 – Work-Life Balance and Self-Care45:16 – Innovations That Improve Student Outcomes🎧 Sound Bites“I want to be a hope dealer.”“Run toward the roar.”“We should literally be exploring careers on a weekly basis.”“Education is a transformational event for families.”🔑 Keywordssocial media in schools, career exploration, self-care for educators, instructional leadership, On the School Bus with Dr. Spates🚌 About the PodcastSo here we are. On the School Bus with Dr. Spates — a vehicle (a metaphorical school bus) for learning, growing, laughing, stretching our thinking, and being inspired together. This podcast is exclusively for two groups of people: the passionate school leaders who show up every day determined to improve student outcomes and transform TK–12 education, and the once-passionate leaders who just need a spark to find their way back.As the culture says: #WeAreNotForEverybody — and that’s perfectly fine with me.📬 Connect with Dr. Krishna Darlene SpatesWebsite: KrishnaSpates.comEmail: hello@OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpates.comInstagram • YouTube • TikTok • Facebook: @OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpatesLinkedIn: Krishna Spates, Ed.D.📬 Connect with Dr. J.R. RuckerWebsite: drjrrucker.comEmail: info@drjrrucker.comListen to the Podcast: The Educational Truth PodcastLinkedIn: Jerome (J.R.) Rucker Ed.D.📸 Production StudioRecorded at 661 Creators SpaceWebsite: 661CreatorsSpace.comInstagram: @661CreatorsSpaceEmail: 661creatorsspace@gmail.com🎼 MusicTheme Song: “Call of Duty” — MutanixInstagram: @mutanixsEmail: mutanixmedia@gmail.comUsed with permission.💛 Support the WorkIf this episode inspired you, please like, comment, subscribe, and share with another school leader. Watch the playlist on YouTube while you're multi-tasking: Listen here. Our students, families, and communities are counting on us.
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    50 min
  • Ep 9 | Equity in Schools: Why Seeing Students and Teachers as Whole Humans Changes Everything with Jazmine Morales Rodriguez

    Ep 9 | Equity in Schools: Why Seeing Students and Teachers as Whole Humans Changes Everything with Jazmine Morales Rodriguez
    Jan 12 2026
    In this episode of On the School Bus with Dr. Spates, Jazmine Morales Rodriguez takes a seat on the bus to share her powerful journey as an educator and equity-centered leader. She reflects on her educational pathway, including the financial and systemic barriers she navigated, and how those experiences shaped her commitment to student advocacy and inclusion.Jazmine underscores the importance of seeing students holistically and building reciprocal, human-centered relationships in schools. The conversation explores the impact of ethnic studies curriculum on student engagement, the realities of teacher burnout, and the critical role of community support in sustaining educators doing this work. Throughout the episode, Jazmine offers affirming insights, honest reflections, and actionable strategies for educators committed to equity, growth, and collective care.✨ What You’ll Learn (Episode Takeaways)Jazmine emphasizes the importance of seeing students as whole individuals—not just academic performers.She shares her personal journey of navigating and overcoming financial barriers to higher education.The episode highlights the power of reciprocal relationships between educators and students.Jazmine discusses how ethnic studies curriculum increases relevance, belonging, and student engagement.She addresses teacher burnout and the emotional toll of doing equity-centered work.The importance of community support and shared responsibility in education is stressed.Jazmine advocates for honoring each student’s unique lived experience and needs.She shares practical strategies for responding to racial comments among young students.Collaboration among educators is positioned as essential, not optional.Educators are encouraged to embrace imperfection, reflection, and growth over performative “perfection.”⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Jazmine Morales Rodriguez02:46 – Jazmine’s Educational Journey05:43 – Overcoming Financial Barriers to Education09:17 – Transitioning from Education to Nonprofit Work12:48 – The Role of Community in Education17:56 – Navigating Burnout in Education20:34 – The Importance of Teacher Well-Being22:58 – Taking a Holistic View of Education26:20 – Building Authentic Relationships in Schools28:37 – Implementing Ethnic Studies Frameworks35:03 – Collaborative Curriculum Development35:36 – Coaching Through Role Play37:30 – Empowering Educators Through Curriculum Design38:43 – Humanizing the Educator Experience39:18 – Building Reciprocal Relationships44:38 – Addressing Racial Comments in Early Education50:55 – Navigating Teacher Pushback in a Changing Climate52:30 – Embracing Mistakes & Finding Your Educator Voice🎧 Sound Bites“We need to see each other holistically.”“It’s never too early to talk about race.”🔑 Keywordseducation, equity, instructional coaching, ethnic studies, student empowerment, teacher burnout, community support, relationship building, financial aid, diversity🚌 About the PodcastSo here we are. On the School Bus with Dr. Spates — a vehicle (a metaphorical school bus) for learning, growing, laughing, stretching our thinking, and being inspired together. This podcast is exclusively for two groups of people: the passionate school leaders who show up every day determined to improve student outcomes and transform TK–12 education, and the once-passionate leaders who just need a spark to find their way back.As the culture says: #WeAreNotForEverybody — and that’s perfectly fine with me.📬 Connect with Dr. Krishna Darlene SpatesWebsite: KrishnaSpates.comEmail: hello@OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpates.comInstagram • YouTube • TikTok • Facebook: @OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpatesLinkedIn: Krishna Spates, Ed.D.📬 Connect with Jazmine Morales RodriguezEmail: Jazzmorales40@gmail.com📸 Production StudioRecorded at 661 Creators SpaceWebsite: 661CreatorsSpace.comInstagram: @661CreatorsSpaceEmail: 661creatorsspace@gmail.com🎼 MusicTheme Song: “Call of Duty” — MutanixInstagram: @mutanixsEmail: mutanixmedia@gmail.comUsed with permission.💛 Support the WorkIf this episode inspired you, please like, comment, subscribe, and share with another school leader. Watch the playlist on YouTube while you're multi-tasking: Listen here. Our students, families, and communities are counting on us.
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    54 min
  • Ep 8 | Don’t Waste Our Kids’ Time: Principal, Coach Fred Gatlin on Empathy, Relevance, and School Leadership

    Ep 8 | Don’t Waste Our Kids’ Time: Principal, Coach Fred Gatlin on Empathy, Relevance, and School Leadership
    Jan 5 2026
    In this episode of On the School Bus with Dr. Spates, Principal and Coach Fred Gatlin hops on the bus to share his powerful journey as an educator, principal, coach, and author. Grounded in empathy and shaped by lived experience, Coach Gatlin reflects on what it truly means to lead schools that honor students’ time, humanity, and potential.The conversation explores how relevant, relationship-centered leadership can transform school culture—particularly for students navigating trauma, adversity, and disengagement. Coach Gatlin shares innovative programs he has implemented to build trust, inspire resilience, and help students develop a strong, “no-excuse” mindset rooted in purpose rather than pressure.Throughout the episode, Dr. Spates and Coach Gatlin discuss the importance of empathy in leadership, the power of positive affirmations, and why self-care, delegation, and trust are essential for sustaining educators in demanding roles. This episode offers practical strategies and affirming reminders for school leaders committed to building environments where both students and staff can thrive.✨ What You’ll Learn (Episode Takeaways)Empathy is a non-negotiable leadership skill in today’s schoolsDiverse life and professional experiences strengthen leadership capacityRelationships are the foundation of student engagement and trustInnovative, student-centered programs can radically shift school cultureRelevance in education matters—students must see themselves in the workPositive affirmations can set the tone for productive school daysEmbracing pain and adversity can build resilience and purposeDelegation and trust are essential to prevent leadership burnoutSelf-care is critical for educators who want longevity and impactSupportive environments accelerate both student and staff success⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Coach Fred Gatlin01:28 – How Diverse Roles Shape Leadership04:03 – Why Empathy Matters in Education07:26 – The Inspiration Behind Train Your Mindset10:34 – Designing Innovative Programs for Engagement11:55 – Understanding Student Demographics14:14 – Building Comprehensive Support Systems16:34 – Relationship-Driven Leadership18:50 – Daily Motivational Practices20:38 – Developing a No-Excuse Mindset24:53 – Turning Adversity into Advantage27:26 – Supporting Trauma-Impacted Students29:45 – Creating a Caring School Culture31:08 – Cultivating a Supportive Leadership Team34:00 – Integrating Life Skills into Education36:29 – Making Learning Relevant39:58 – Balancing Multiple Roles as an Educator42:21 – Sustainable Self-Care Practices44:39 – Advice for School Leaders🎧 Sound Bites“Don’t waste our kids’ time.”“I was born to do this.”“You can’t count down the days.”🔑 Keywordseducational leadership, empathy in leadership, school culture, student engagement, resilient mindset, trauma-informed schools, principal leadership, educator self-care, relevant education, relationship-centered leadership🚌 About the PodcastSo here we are. On the School Bus with Dr. Spates — a vehicle (a metaphorical school bus) for learning, growing, laughing, stretching our thinking, and being inspired together. This podcast is exclusively for two groups of people: the passionate school leaders who show up every day determined to improve student outcomes and transform TK–12 education, and the once-passionate leaders who just need a spark to find their way back.As the culture says: #WeAreNotForEverybody — and that’s perfectly fine with me.📬 Connect with Dr. Krishna Darlene SpatesWebsite: KrishnaSpates.comEmail: hello@OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpates.comInstagram • YouTube • TikTok • Facebook: @OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpatesLinkedIn: Krishna Spates, Ed.D.📬 Connect with Community Day School Principal, Coach Fred GatlinEmail: CoachGatlinMindset@gmail.com📸 Production StudioRecorded at 661 Creators SpaceWebsite: 661CreatorsSpace.comInstagram: @661CreatorsSpaceEmail: 661creatorsspace@gmail.com🎼 MusicTheme Song: “Call of Duty” — MutanixInstagram: @mutanixsEmail: mutanixmedia@gmail.comUsed with permission.💛 Support the WorkIf this episode inspired you, please like, comment, subscribe, and share with another school leader. Our students, families, and communities are counting on us.
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    48 min
  • Ep 7 | Leadership That Fuels Innovation: Dr. Greg Franklin on Creating a Culture of “Yes!”

    Ep 7 | Leadership That Fuels Innovation: Dr. Greg Franklin on Creating a Culture of “Yes!”
    Dec 15 2025
    In this episode of On the School Bus with Dr. Spates, Dr. Greg Franklin shares insights from his extensive career in education and leadership, offering practical strategies for fostering creativity and innovation among teachers while building school cultures rooted in equity and collaboration.Dr. Franklin emphasizes the importance of clear vision, consistent communication, and investing in people over programs. He challenges school leaders to move beyond compliance-driven systems and instead create cultures that say “yes,” empower educators, and scale innovation in sustainable, inclusive ways.This episode is a must-listen for principals, district leaders, instructional coaches, and teacher leaders who are navigating change, strengthening school culture, and working to ensure equitable opportunities for all students.✨ What You’ll Learn (Episode Takeaways)• Why a clear vision unlocks teacher creativity• How repetition strengthens communication and alignment• Why investing in people outperforms investing in programs• How a culture of “yes” fuels innovation• What equity looks like in access to rigorous learning• How listening and learning tours deepen community trust• Why relationships are the foundation of strong leadership• The importance of establishing non-negotiables early• What it takes to scale innovation with staff buy-in• How joy and collaboration sustain educators⏱️ Chapters00:00 — Introduction to Mentorship and Leadership05:00 — Unlocking Teacher Creativity and Innovation07:39 — Mind Shifts: From Compliance to Creativity10:47 — Non-Negotiables for Innovation During Crisis13:48 — Equity and Innovation in Education16:50 — Scaling Innovation in Education18:54 — Building Inclusive Career Pathways21:52 — Challenges in Scaling Innovation24:50 — Conclusion and Final Thoughts25:58 — Scaling Educational Success28:00 — Collaborative Professional Development29:38 — Fostering Innovation in Schools31:11 — Leadership and Boldness32:17 — Listening and Learning Tours36:38 — Building Relationships in Education40:56 — Sustaining Wellness for Educators🎧 Sound Bites"Find a way to say yes.""Start with the willing.""The teaching is the key."🔑 Keywords education leadership, innovative school leadership, teacher creativity, equity in education, school culture, professional development, teacher support, community engagement, instructional leadership, scaling innovation, educational equity, leadership mindset, building school culture, education podcast, K–12 leadership, principal leadership, teacher empowerment, collaborative leadership🚌 About the PodcastSo here we are. On the School Bus with Dr. Spates — a vehicle (a metaphorical school bus) for learning, growing, laughing, stretching our thinking, and being inspired together. This podcast is exclusively for two groups of people: the passionate school leaders who show up every day determined to improve student outcomes and transform TK–12 education, and the once-passionate leaders who just need a spark to find their way back.As the culture says: #WeAreNotForEverybody — and that’s perfectly fine with me.📬 Connect with Dr. Krishna Darlene SpatesWebsite: KrishnaSpates.comEmail: hello@OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpates.comInstagram • YouTube • TikTok • Facebook: @OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpatesLinkedIn: Krishna Spates, Ed.D.📬 Connect with Dr. Greg FranklinEmail: gfrankli@usc.edu📸 Production StudioRecorded at 661 Creators SpaceWebsite: 661CreatorsSpace.comInstagram: @661CreatorsSpaceEmail: 661creatorsspace@gmail.com🎼 MusicTheme Song: “Call of Duty” — MutanixInstagram: @mutanixsEmail: mutanixmedia@gmail.comUsed with permission.💛 Support the WorkIf this episode inspired you, please like, comment, subscribe, and share with another school leader. Our students, families, and communities are counting on us.
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    46 min
  • Ep 06 | MTSS for Real Classrooms: Strategies That Actually Support Diverse Learners

    Ep 06 | MTSS for Real Classrooms: Strategies That Actually Support Diverse Learners
    Dec 8 2025

    In this episode of On the School Bus with Dr. Spates, the mic flips — three aspiring teachers interview Dr. Spates about what it actually takes to build an MTSS system that works in real classrooms.

    From relationships to data, from teacher collaboration to differentiation, this conversation breaks MTSS and RTI down in a way that’s real, practical, and grounded in care. Dr. Spates shares strategies educators can use tomorrow to support diverse learners academically, socially, and emotionally.

    Whether you're a teacher, principal, student teacher, or instructional leader, this episode is packed with insight into what it truly means to support every student.

    Thank you to the New Edu Crew: Christal Heard, Yesenia Padilla and Nicole Vera for an awesome interview!

    ✨ Episode Takeaways

    • Strong relationships are the foundation of student success.
    • MTSS supports the whole child — academics, behavior, and social-emotional needs.
    • Teachers shouldn’t aim for perfection; take risks and grow.
    • Progress monitoring and data collection matter.
    • Collaboration strengthens support for diverse learners.
    • Investing time to truly know students pays off.
    • Positive reinforcement drives motivation.
    • Student feedback helps teachers refine their practice.
    • Classroom environment communicates care.
    • Family engagement expands the support network.


    🎧 Sound Bites

    • "It's not personal, right?"
    • "They love affirmation."
    • "You can't outdo care."


    ⏱️ Chapters

    00:00 — Introduction & Purpose

    05:28 — Why These Future Teachers Chose Education

    11:27 — What MTSS & RTI Really Mean in Schools

    17:41 — The Teacher’s Role in MTSS

    19:46 — Using Data & Progress Monitoring Effectively

    21:14 — Asking Students for Feedback

    23:23 — Teacher Collaboration That Actually Works

    26:37 — Differentiation for Diverse Learners

    29:27 — Strengthening Relationships with Students & Families

    32:37 — Empowering Students as Peer Teachers

    34:52 — Creating a Positive, Welcoming Classroom Environment


    📌 Keywords

    MTSS, RTI, education, teaching strategies, student support, teacher collaboration, classroom management, diverse learners, educational leadership, teacher relationships


    🚌 On the School Bus with Dr. Spates

    So here we are. On the School Bus with Dr. Spates — a vehicle (a metaphorical school bus) for learning, growing, laughing, stretching our thinking, and being inspired together.

    This podcast is exclusively for two groups of people:

    1. The passionate school leaders who show up every day determined to improve student outcomes and transform TK–12 school experiences, and
    2. The once-passionate leaders who may have lost a bit of their spark and just need a dose of inspiration to find their way back.

    As the culture says: #WeAreNotForEverybody — and that’s perfectly fine with me.


    📬 Connect with Dr. Krishna Darlene Spates

    Website: KrishnaSpates.com

    Email: hello@OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpates.com

    Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Facebook: @OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpates

    LinkedIn: Krishna Spates, Ed.D.


    📸 Production Studio

    Recorded at 661 Creators Space — a creative studio dedicated to amplifying local voices through high-quality audio and visual production.

    Website: 661CreatorsSpace.com

    Instagram: @661CreatorsSpace

    Email: 661creatorsspace@gmail.com


    🎼 Music

    Theme Song: “Call of Duty” Artist Mutanix

    Instagram: @mutanixs

    Email: mutanixmedia@gmail.com

    Used with permission. All rights reserved.


    💛 Support the Work

    If this episode inspired you, please follow, rate, and share with another school leader. Our students, families, and communities are counting on us.
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    42 min
  • Ep 05 | Meet the Host: Why We Ride – It May Bomb But the Kids and Adults Who Support Them are Worth It

    Ep 05 | Meet the Host: Why We Ride – It May Bomb But the Kids and Adults Who Support Them are Worth It
    Dec 1 2025

    In Episode 5 of On the School Bus with Dr. Spates, we take a reflective ride into the heart of why this podcast exists. Dr. Spates opens up about her mission to spotlight innovation, bold leadership, and creative strategies that truly move the needle for students. She shares her personal journey in education, what keeps her committed to serving communities, and the pressing challenges educators are navigating today.

    This episode reinforces the podcast’s purpose: elevating what’s working in schools, amplifying educator voices, and giving leaders practical, field-tested strategies they can bring back to their learning communities. If you’re committed to improving student outcomes and building thriving school cultures, this one is for you.


    Takeaways

    – Why educator collaboration is essential for student success

    – How strong relationships drive engagement and learning

    – The importance of transparency about what’s actually working in schools

    – How personal experiences shape leadership decisions

    – Why creativity and bold thinking are essential in today’s educational landscape

    – The critical role of community and family engagement

    – Why declining student performance requires urgent, innovative responses

    – How this podcast serves as a platform for educator support and inspiration


    Featured Topics

    • Student success

    • Innovative school practices

    • Leadership in education

    • Community engagement

    • Teaching strategies

    • Collaboration & educator support

    • School culture and climate


    Sound Bites

    "I hope to tap into each guest's zone of genius."

    "I believe there are levels to, no."

    "We cannot do this work alone. We need one another."


    Chapters

    00:00 — Introduction to Today’s Conversation

    02:53 — The Mission of Educators

    06:13 — Personal Background & Educational Philosophy

    08:56 — Challenges in Education & Community Engagement

    10:48 — A Call to Action for Educators


    Keywords

    education, school leadership, TK–12, teaching strategies, instructional leadership, student success, community engagement, educator support, collaboration, innovation in schools, school culture, principal podcast


    🚌 On the School Bus with Dr. Spates

    So here we are. On the School Bus with Dr. Spates — a vehicle (a metaphorical school bus) for learning, growing, laughing, stretching our thinking, and being inspired together.

    This podcast is exclusively for two groups of people:

    1. The passionate school leaders who show up every day determined to improve student outcomes and transform TK–12 school experiences, and
    2. The once-passionate leaders who may have lost a bit of their spark and just need a dose of inspiration to find their way back.

    As the culture says: #WeAreNotForEverybody — and that’s perfectly fine with me.


    📬 Connect with Dr. Krishna Darlene Spates

    Website: KrishnaSpates.com

    Email: hello@OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpates.com

    Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • Facebook: @OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpates

    LinkedIn: Krishna Spates, Ed.D.


    📸 Production Studio

    Recorded at 661 Creators Space — a creative studio dedicated to amplifying local voices through high-quality audio and visual production.

    Website: 661CreatorsSpace.com

    Instagram: @661CreatorsSpace

    Email: 661creatorsspace@gmail.com


    🎼 Music

    Theme Song: “Call of Duty”

    Artist: Mutanix

    Instagram: @mutanixs

    Email: mutanixmedia@gmail.com

    Used with permission. All rights reserved.


    💛 Support the Work

    If this episode inspired you, please follow, rate, and share with another school leader. Our students, families, and communities are counting on us.
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    12 min
  • Ep 04 | Breaking the Stigma — Mental Health, Trust, and Student Well-Being with Ebony Wilson

    Ep 04 | Breaking the Stigma — Mental Health, Trust, and Student Well-Being with Ebony Wilson
    Nov 24 2025
    Episode DescriptionIn this episode Dr. Spates sits down with Ebony Wilson, MSW, LCSW, PPSC — founder and CEO of Ebony’s Safe Space. Based in Palmdale, California, her organization’s mission is to support and empower groups and communities through relatable mental health and emotional‑wellness services. Ebony and her team provide solution‑focused, strength‑based, anti‑oppressive therapy — including individual and group counseling, workshops and public‑speaking engagements — so that every client feels heard and understood. She brings decades of experience as a licensed clinical social worker and school‑based therapist to help educators build safe, affirming environments where students and staff can process emotions, develop healthy coping strategies, and thrive.What You’ll Learn• How to build authentic connections that strengthen trust and belonging in schools• The role of restorative practices and mental‑health supports in helping students and staff• Proactive strategies to reduce behavior incidents and create psychologically safe classrooms• How to coach teachers through conflict, communication and trauma‑informed responses• Why every school needs a culture plan — not just a discipline plan• Tools to shift staff mindsets and align campus systems for student successKey Takeaways for School LeadersRelationships are the foundation of safe schools; consistency plus care creates culture; student behavior is communication, not defiance; staff need coaching, clarity and community to create belonging; and leaders must model empathy, accountability and presence daily.About Ebony WilsonEbony founded Ebony's Safe Space LLC in 2022. Raised in Southern California’s Antelope Valley, she survived traumatic experiences in adolescence and, with the support of mentors and spiritual leaders, found purpose in serving her community. Her early work as a para‑educator in juvenile lockdown facilities ignited a passion for social justice, and she went on to earn an A.A. in Social and Behavioral Sciences, a B.A. in Sociology and an M.S.W. from California State University, Northridge, along with a Pupil Personnel Services Credential from UCLA. Ebony spent years providing psychotherapy to children, families and adults as a school‑based and wraparound therapist before founding Ebony’s Safe Space to create non‑judgmental spaces where children, adults and groups of all kinds can learn about mental health, process their feelings and develop healthy coping strategies to become the best versions of themselves. Her personal values of spirituality, empowerment, compassion, connection and respect continue to guide the organization.Chapters00:00 — Welcome & Episode Overview02:40 — Ebony’s Journey & Why Safe Spaces Matter08:15 — Building Trust and Relationships in Schools15:20 — Restorative Practices & Mental‑Health Supports That Work22:00 — Coaching Teachers Through Conflict & Communication29:45 — Designing a School‑Wide Culture Plan36:10 — Supporting Staff Wellness & Mindset Shifts42:00 — Final Reflections for School LeadersConnect with Ebony WilsonInstagram: @ebonyssafespaceWebsite: https://www.ebonyssafespace.orgEmail: ewilson@ebonyssafespace.orgPhone: 661‑522‑7255🚌 On the School Bus with Dr. SpatesSo here we are. On the School Bus with Dr. Spates — a vehicle (a metaphorical school bus) for learning, growing, laughing, stretching our thinking, and being inspired together.This podcast is exclusively for two groups of people:The passionate school leaders who show up every day determined to improve student outcomes and transform TK–12 school experiences, andThe once-passionate leaders who may have lost a bit of their spark and just need a dose of inspiration to find their way back.As the culture says: #WeAreNotForEverybody — and that’s perfectly fine with me.📬 Connect with Dr. Krishna Darlene SpatesWebsite: KrishnaSpates.comEmail: hello@OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpates.comInstagram • YouTube • TikTok • Facebook: @OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpatesLinkedIn: Krishna Spates, Ed.D.📸 Production StudioRecorded at 661 Creators Space — a creative studio dedicated to amplifying local voices through high-quality audio and visual production.Website: 661CreatorsSpace.comInstagram: @661CreatorsSpaceEmail: 661creatorsspace@gmail.com🎼 MusicTheme Song: “Call of Duty”Artist: MutanixInstagram: @mutanixsEmail: mutanixmedia@gmail.comUsed with permission. All rights reserved.💛 Support the WorkIf this episode inspired you, please follow, rate, and share with another school leader. Our students, families, and communities are counting on us.
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    1 ora e 6 min
  • Ep 03 | Innovative School Pathways: Connecting Students to Careers with Matthew Winheim

    Ep 03 | Innovative School Pathways: Connecting Students to Careers with Matthew Winheim
    Nov 17 2025
    In this insightful conversation, Matthew Winheim explores how educators can innovate to prepare students for a rapidly changing world. From designing career-connected learning to strengthening AVID programs, he emphasizes the power of relevance, strong school leadership, and a growth mindset.Winheim and Spates discuss:How to build safe, supportive learning environmentsWhy empowerment matters for teachers and site leadersThe role of equity in ensuring every student has access to high-quality learningHow personal stories inform teaching practiceWhat aviation can teach us about collaboration, urgency, and innovation in schoolsAt the heart of the episode is a simple truth Winheim embodies: “Every student has infinite value—and educators can change generations.”TakeawaysMatt Winheim is committed to connecting students with career opportunities, especially in aviation.Teachers should focus on their end goals and the practical steps to reach them.School leaders must empower teachers with support, coaching, and resources.Safe learning environments are essential for every student’s success.Relevance in instruction helps students understand the “why” behind what they’re learning.Every student has potential—educators must recognize and nurture it.AVID programs expand access to post-secondary pathways.Choosing a career in education is a way to serve the community and change lives.Educators can change generations by inspiring belief and confidence in students.A growth mindset fuels progress for both teachers and students.Chapters00:00 — Introduction to the Podcast and Guest03:05 — Matt Winheim’s Educational Journey07:51 — Advice for Teachers and School Leaders12:39 — Relevance in Math Education17:14 — Impact of Personal Experiences on Teaching22:05 — Belief Systems and Student Potential26:57 — Growth Mindset and Student Engagement28:50 — Authenticity in Teaching31:24 — Service and Duty in Education34:09 — Creating a Supportive Learning Environment34:57 — Innovative Aviation Education46:38 — Career Pathways in Aviation53:35 — Ensuring Equity in Education56:45 — Elevating Teacher Voice and Practice59:51 — Supporting Teachers for Student Success01:04:49 — Creating Real-World Relevance in Education01:13:42 — The Urgency of Educational InnovationGuestMatthew Winheim | California's 2025 Teacher of The Year | Aviation TeacherConnect on Facebook & LinkedIn🚌 On the School Bus with Dr. SpatesSo here we are. On the School Bus with Dr. Spates — a vehicle (a metaphorical school bus) for learning, growing, laughing, stretching our thinking, and being inspired together.This podcast is exclusively for two groups of people:The passionate school leaders who show up every day determined to improve student outcomes and transform TK–12 school experiences, andThe once-passionate leaders who may have lost a bit of their spark and just need a dose of inspiration to find their way back.As the culture says: #WeAreNotForEverybody — and that’s perfectly fine with me.📬 Connect with Dr. Krishna Darlene SpatesWebsite: KrishnaSpates.comEmail: hello@OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpates.comInstagram • YouTube • TikTok • Facebook: @OnTheSchoolBusWithDrSpatesLinkedIn: Krishna Spates, Ed.D.📸 Production StudioRecorded at 661 Creators Space — a creative studio dedicated to amplifying local voices through high-quality audio and visual production.Website: 661CreatorsSpace.comInstagram: @661CreatorsSpaceEmail: 661creatorsspace@gmail.com🎼 MusicTheme Song: “Call of Duty”Artist: MutanixInstagram: @mutanixsEmail: mutanixmedia@gmail.comUsed with permission. All rights reserved.💛 Support the WorkIf this episode inspired you, please follow, rate, and share with another school leader. Our students, families, and communities are counting on us.
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    1 ora e 19 min